How China uses Russia as a wrecking ball

News Snapshot:

In these grim and violent times, it may seem odd to fret about diplomatic dysfunction in the United Nations Security Council. But at its best that forum is a bulwark against anarchy. Its five permanent members—America, Britain, China, France and Russia—are balanced by a further ten governments elected to two-year terms. Responding to crises both large and obscure, council resolutions have over the years imposed sanctions, peacekeeping missions, arms embargoes or, at a minimum, international scrutiny on tyrants, terrorists and coup-leaders who might otherwise enjoy complete impunity. That system is breaking down. Liberal democracies, notably, accuse Russia of playing wrecker...